Installing Insulation Batts: PM Tool Tips

Insulation can be rolled out like carpet, shot out the end of a hose, or applied from a can as if it were Cheez Whiz. Then there's the batt, a tightly folded bunch of fiberglass insulation. It's fast and efficient to install and easy to handle.

Jun 26, 2009

Insulation can be rolled out like carpet, shot out the end of a hose, or applied from a can as if it were Cheez Whiz. Then there's the batt, a tightly folded bunch of fiberglass insulation. Slit its package and it springs into shape. Its big advantage is that its length matches typical framing dimensions, so you just press it tightly into place or lay it over ceiling joists without cutting. It's fast and efficient to install and easy to handle.

Expert Tip

In attics, insulation should cover the tops of the ceiling joists—otherwise, heat from the room below will be conducted into the attic in a process called thermal bridging. Some builders lay 6- or 8-in. batts between joists and add a second layer across the first. Others add loose fiberglass over batts, or use only loose fiberglass or cellulose.

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